- Diagnostics & Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
- Foot & Ankle
- Podiatry
Anatomy of the Foot and Toes
Nearly one-fourth of all bones in the human body are in the feet. The foot is a complex, flexible structure that contains bones, joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments, all working together to enable movement and balance. The foot is divided into three sections, the forefoot, midfoot and hindfoot. The forefoot has five toes (14 phalanges) and five longer bones (metatarsals). One phalanx of each of the five toes connects to one of the five metatarsals.
The big toe, or great toe (hallux), is made up of two joints. The metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) is the largest of these, and the closest to the base of the toe, where the first long bone of the foot (metatarsal) meets the first bone of the toe (phalanx). In the MTP joint, as in any joint, the ends of the bones, where they touch, are covered by articular cartilage, a smooth substance that protects the bones and enables them to move easily.
Difficulties with the feet and toes can lead to more serious problems, not only for the feet, but also for other areas of the body, including the spine. Certain foot and toe problems may be caused by footwear that fits improperly, does not accommodate normal foot alignment, or that interferes with natural movement and balance of the body.
What Are Foot Orthotics?
Orthotics are specially designed inserts that are placed inside footwear to reduce symptoms related to foot and ankle conditions by supporting and correcting foot function and alignment. In some cases, orthotics can help prevent or delay the need for more invasive or surgical treatment.
After evaluating your condition, your podiatrist may recommend a custom device for better cushioning and relief of symptoms, including chronic pain, discomfort, or difficulty walking. Your podiatrist may take a mold of your feet to be used in creating a pair of orthotics tailored specifically for the unique shape of each foot.
Proper foot orthotics can serve a variety of purposes, including:
- Support for feet and ankles
- Realignment of bones and joints into their proper positions
- Redistribute weight evenly, relieving pressure from sore areas and preventing further deformity
- Absorbing the shock of impact when walking or running
- Preventing deformities such as hammertoes or bunions from developing or worsening
- Improvement of muscle function by taking strain off weak or injured muscles, tendons and ligaments
Types of Orthotics
Foot pads, heel liners or inserts, insoles, ankle braces, and other orthotics may be prescribed to provide correction and relief for a variety of foot and ankle conditions.
Rigid—Usually made of plastic or metal, these provide support for bones and joints in the feet and are used to treat conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs, and flat feet.
Soft—Typically made from foam or gel, these provide cushioning and shock absorption and are used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
Who Needs Foot Orthotics?
If you experience chronic foot pain or other foot issues, your podiatrist will conduct a thorough examination to determine the best course of treatment and whether your condition will benefit from orthotics.
Foot orthotics may be helpful if: